Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Famous for its healthy tiger population and the dramatic 10th-century fort that towers over the landscape, Ranthambore is a top destination for wildlife lovers. The park's combination of dense forest, open bushland, and ancient ruins provides a stunning
backdrop for tiger sightings. Vande Bharat trains connect major cities like Delhi and Agra to Sawai Madhopur Junction (SWM). From the station, the main entrance to the national park is a short 20-30 minute drive, covering a distance of about 10-12 kilometres. Taxis and local transport are readily available at the station, making this one of the most seamless rail-to-safari transfers available.
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is globally celebrated for hosting the world's largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros. Beyond the iconic rhino, the park is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with elephants, tigers, wild water buffalo, and a vast array of bird species. The gateway to this natural wonder is Guwahati. With the introduction of Vande Bharat services, including a sleeper train connecting to Kolkata, reaching Guwahati is faster and more comfortable. From Guwahati, Kaziranga is approximately a four to five-hour road journey, which can be covered by hiring a private taxi or taking a bus.
Gir National Park, Gujarat
For a truly unique wildlife experience, Gir National Park offers the exclusive opportunity to see the majestic Asiatic lion in its only natural habitat in the world. This dry, deciduous forest is also home to leopards, crocodiles, and a rich diversity of birdlife. The Vande Bharat Express has significantly improved access to this region. Travellers can take a Vande Bharat train to Veraval, which is the nearest major station. From Veraval, the main entry point to the park at Sasan Gir is just 45 km away, a journey that takes a little over an hour by road.
Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
Part of the expansive Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Bandipur is one of South India’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. It is a critical habitat for Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, gaurs, and over 200 species of birds. The park’s landscape transitions from deciduous forests to scrublands, offering diverse safari experiences. The most convenient way to reach Bandipur using the Vande Bharat network is to travel to Mysuru. The national park is located about 80 km from Mysuru, and the scenic drive takes approximately two hours, taking you from the city into the heart of the Western Ghats.
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Known for its high density of Bengal tigers and frequent sightings, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve has become a premier destination for serious wildlife enthusiasts. Located in Maharashtra's Chandrapur district, its forests are also home to leopards, sloth bears, and wild dogs. The main access hub for Tadoba is the city of Nagpur, which is well-connected by multiple Vande Bharat routes. From Nagpur, the reserve is about a 140 km drive, which typically takes three to four hours by taxi. Alternatively, travelers can take a train to Chandrapur station, which is closer to some of the park's gates.
